The Rivard Teahen Wheatley Group - Baird Private Wealth Management

10/20/2026

Retirement planning isn't just about investments and income. Healthcare costs matter too, often more than people expect.

IRMAA can affect what some retirees pay for Medicare, making it an important piece of the retirement planning puzzle. Financial strategies such as Roth conversions may also influence your income and, in turn, your Medicare premiums.

Take a look at this helpful overview to learn more:

Your Medicare premiums can rise with income due to IRMAA. Learn what it is and how you can keep your costs under control.

10/15/2026

Gone Fishing...

Let's make sure it's not Phishing!

I don't think there is any relief on the horizon in terms of the risk of fraud, hacking, phishing, etc.

Take a look at this article for some additional tips, and be sure to check in with anyone in your care to make sure they're aware of these risks and accounts are protected.

https://rtwgroup.bairdwealth.com/resource-center/lifestyle/gone-phishing

10/12/2026

I just returned from an amazing trip with friends to Valencia and Mallorca Spain.

It's not easy to plan time away like this, but each time I do, I'm reminded of why it's worth it!

Whatever your priorities are... more time with family, more travel, charitable giving, etc., don't be shy about building into your plans.

Your goals should be reflected in your financial plan, family calendar, or whatever guides your day-to-day.

If we don't plan it, we often won't do it.

10/08/2026

Hard to believe we've round the corner into the final quarter of 2026!

Do you have all your financial planning/tax planning boxes checked?

+ retirement contributions made?
+ take a look at capital gains and income for the year as you look ahead at tax time?
+ thinking about year-end charitable giving or gifts to family?

The article below is a nice guide as you work through your 2026 plans!

Here’s what you need to know about the increased limits for gifting, retirement contributions and more in 2026.

10/05/2026

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. I celebrated this morning by getting my mammogram.

Thanks to the amazing team at Munson Healthcare's Smith Family Breast Health Center, I was in and out in 10 minutes!

If you've been procrastinating on getting yours done, this is your sign to BOOK IT NOW!

Because what is wealth without your health?

09/28/2026

How many financial accounts do you have?

If the answer is "I dunno..." 🤔 it may be time to talk.

I've met with several people over the past few weeks where it felt like "financial confessional!"

Don't hide from it... we can help you sort through things, simplify, and make a plan.

Consolidating accounts can help you reduce paperwork, streamline management, and make it easier to keep your financial goals in focus.

Learn more here, and know that you're not alone;)

More than creating convenience, consolidating accounts can help you mitigate taxes, better manage your cash flow and more.

09/24/2026

🚗 Flat tire. 🐶 Emergency vet visit. 🏠 Water heater decides it's had enough.

Life has a funny way of reminding us that surprises aren't always fun.

That's where an emergency fund comes in. Think of it as your financial shock absorber, helping you handle the unexpected without derailing your long-term goals.

How much should you save? A good starting point is 3-6 months of essential expenses, but the right amount depends on your situation.

Ready to build your financial safety net? Read more here:

Relying on credit cards in a crisis could be costly. The smarter choice? Start building your personal emergency fund.

09/21/2026

Long-term care is maybe the most common concern facing our clients and their families.

While long-term care insurance and hybrid policies can make sense in some situations, they're not the right fit for everyone. In many cases, a well-funded retirement plan and personal savings may be the best way to address future care needs.

This article offers a helpful overview to consider with your family and your advisors. Of course, we're here for you if you'd like to discuss!

Six strategies for an underappreciated but crucial component of retirement planning.

09/18/2026

With a trip to Spain on the horizon, it has me thinking about "best travel tips" to share with you.

Luckily, our of Traverse City club meeting featured Call recently, focused on how to make the most of international travel experiences!

Beyond the basics (keep a copy of important documents, bring multiple payment methods, shop around for best exchange rates, etc.), Marina shared her guideposts for international travel, including: Language, Global Citizenship, Learning, and more.

I'm always appreciative when friends share their best tips... take a look at one of her slides below if you're looking for ways to deepen your international experiences.

Bon Voyage!

09/15/2026

Nothing better than having fun while supporting a great cause!

The Rivard Family, and our Baird Team have supported Traverse Area Community Sailing for many years - helping to ensure "there's a place for everyone on the water."

It's always a highlight to come together to celebrate their great work at the annual "Admirals Ball!"

'mSailing!